Immigration For Same Sex Couples | O’Brien Law Group

Latest in immigration news revolves around same sex marriages. Due to the recent Supreme Court ruling about same sex unions, President Barack Obama requested a review in policies amongst all agencies in regard to the treatment of same sex couples. As a result, Secretary of State John Kerry announced Friday August 2nd that there are now policy changes regarding couples of the same sex seeking visas in practice. All couples, regardless of sexual orientation will now be treated equally.

John Kerry stated, “Now, as long as a marriage has been performed in a jurisdiction that recognizes it, so that it is legal, then that marriage is valid under U.S. immigration laws, and every married couple will be treated exactly the same,”

The policy change applies worldwide and is effective immediately. It affects visa applications for foreign nationals in a same sex marriage with an American citizen and couples where both spouses are foreign nationals. Those couples that wish to immigrate into a state that does not recognize same sex marriage, will still be reviewed and granted a visa on a federal level.

Previously the only visas that were considered together were that of opposite sex couples, the couple must be legally married and coming from a country which also recognizes same sex marriage. Currently there are sixteen counties, mostly throughout Europe that recognize same sex marriages.

While they haven’t all taken effect just yet, laws have been passed allowing same sex marriages. Sweden, Denmark, Spain, Belgium, Iceland, Portugal, the Netherlands, Norway, France, Brazil, Uruguay, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Britain and Argentina are all included on that list. Court mandated protections, similar to that in the United States, exist for same sex couples in Mexico.

The new policy is “tearing down an unjust and unfair barrier” according to John Kerry. Now families will be recognized as such regardless of sexual preference and able to travel together.

The O’Brien Law Group of Louisville Kentucky understands some aspects to your immigration case can be complex and at times incredibly frustrating. They have helped many families and individuals from various countries, gain the ability to live and work in the United States.

With 10 years of service in immigration law, this firm will answer any questions you may have and address all your concerns, making your immigration into the United States as simple as possible for you and your family.

Lead Attorney Rusty O’Brien has 14 years of experience practicing immigration law. He has obtained both, temporary and permanent entry into the United States for clients from around the globe. He understands the federal statutes and regulations affecting your ability to work or live in this country. He also recognizes the complex rules that may affect your opportunity to bring your family to the United States.